African Rum Buns

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: African

African Rum Buns are flavorful, moist cookies infused with rum, coconut flakes, and spices, ideal for festive occasions or as a sweet treat with a tropical twist.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb. butter or margarine
  • 4 c. flour
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 10 oz. coconut flakes
  • 10 oz. raisins or dried cherries
  • 2 oz. rum or rum flavoring
  • 2 Tbsp. vanilla extract
  • 1 Tbsp. nutmeg
  • 3 oz. milk

Instructions

  1. Mix butter, flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and all dry ingredients.
  2. Add eggs, rum, and vanilla extract to the mixture.
  3. Mix well and then add milk to form a batter.
  4. Drop 1 tablespoon of batter onto greased cookie sheets.
  5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes until golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark rum or adding a pinch of cinnamon along with the nutmeg. If you're short on time, you can substitute the butter with vegetable oil or applesauce for a lighter version. If you prefer a healthier option, try reducing the sugar to 3/4 cup and using whole wheat flour instead. These African Rum Buns also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful buns warm, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They make a great snack or dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive twist, consider pairing them with Pineapple And Cream Cheese Salad to balance the flavors. These buns are perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat during the day.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of African Rum Buns contains roughly 241 calories, with 2g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.

241 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 6g 8% DV
Carbs 21.6g 8% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 5.5g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 119.9mg 5% DV
Potassium 165.2mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 41.1mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3.7mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 88.3mg 7% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these buns without rum?

Yes, you can substitute rum with an equal amount of rum flavoring or vanilla extract for a similar taste. Alternatively, for a non-alcoholic version, use apple juice or coconut milk for a unique flavor profile that complements the coconut flakes.

What can I use instead of coconut flakes?

If you're not a fan of coconut, you can replace the flakes with chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the texture and sweetness of the buns.

How do I know when the buns are done baking?

The buns are done when they are golden brown on the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking, as they can dry out quickly.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →